Thousands expected this weekend in demonstration against disability cuts.
Milton Keynes city centre could become the site of one of the largest protest rallies in years, as organisers gear up for a mass demonstration against the Government’s proposed disability benefit cuts.
The MK National Education Union Rally will march on Saturday morning (31st May) at 11am from Milton Keynes Theatre to MK City Council’s Civic Offices at Saxon Gate East.
It’s expected that hundreds of wheelchair and mobility scooter users will join with others who could be affected by the cuts, on what is expected to be a lively and well-supported march. They are protesting against the Government’s planned changes to eligibility for PIP (personal independence payment) to people with physical and hidden disabilities.
Daniel Kebede, the general secretary of the National Education Union has been invited to attend as have Milton Keynes’ three MPs, representatives from the Unison trade union and the People’s Assembly, an organisation against austerity.
“The mark of a civilised society is the way it looks after its most vulnerable members, not its strongest,” said Dan Rowland, NEU district secretary, who has organised the march with branch secretary Andy Buchanan.
Among those planning to attend is Debbie Whitworth, a ward councillor and Mayor of Olney, who is a wheelchair user. She has been invited to speak at the rally.
She is calling on Milton Keynes citizens to support the march this weekend over what she describes as ‘the biggest cut to disability benefits on record’.
“As a disabled wheelchair user myself I am utterly shocked at these proposals and share the concerns of many," said Councillor Whitworth.
“PIP is a non-means tested benefit designed to contribute towards the cost of being disabled. But increasingly with the cost of living, people rely on it to make ends meet.
"Take that away and there is nothing in its place," she added.
“These inhumane PIP proposals will impact a large group of people, including current and future recipients of PIP, carers, and those affected by changes to Universal Credit.
“Specifically, the proposed changes could lead to financial losses for a significant number of individuals, including those who may no longer qualify for PIP, those who receive lower payments, and those whose carer's allowance is affected.
“Additionally, people with severe mental illness who rely on PIP to pay for support workers could also be impacted.
“If you or anyone you know could be affected by these proposals please come along on Saturday and show your support against what is the biggest cut to disability benefits on record.”
